Successful Plant Breeders’ Rights project in China

In 2009 the follow up project to improve the Plants Breeders’ Rights system started in China, and concluded in May 2011. Both parties stressed their desire to continue the cooperation.

The focus of the project included further development of DUS testing, analysing and improving procedures and involving higher management in order to create awareness of the significance of Plant Breeders’ Rights (PBR) in China for the development of the sector.

DUS testing
A number of Chinese DUS examiners received training in the Netherlands in the practical aspects of testing, ranging from the initial set up of tests right up to compiling the reports. The emphasis was on new varieties not yet included on the list of plants protected by PBR in China. During the training given by Naktuinbouw at the DUS stations in China, crops were used that can be protected by PBR in China. Chinese experts also took part in the international PVP Course.

Procedures
The procedures and methodology involved in PBR were detailed by Naktuinbouw specialists. Where necessary, improvement points were identified and discussed with the people responsible for drafting Chinese policy. The Dutch breeding companies have been informed about the Chinese procedures. In an open dialogue, this group had the chance to mention any bottlenecks they had encountered in the Chinese system. Plantum NL and Naktuinbouw have indicated how sections of the Chinese legislation could be amended to harmonise with UPOV 91, such as the length of the trials, the list of crops to be protected and the so-called farm saved seeds. China is not expected to join UPOV 91 in the short term; however the country has shown its willingness to amend some sections of its legislation.

Awareness
Chinese managers and directors studied the system of PBR in the Netherlands. This raised their awareness of the importance of a sound system for breeding companies. As well as visiting the Ministry, NAK, Plantum NL, the Board for Plant Varieties, and number of breeding companies and Naktuinbouw, the delegation also visited the Horti Fair. The Holland Green Genetics Day at the World Expo in Shanghai also emphasised the importance of a properly functioning PBR system for the development of the agricultural and horticultural sectors in China. This subject was also on the agenda at the six-monthly ‘High Level Meeting’ between the Chinese and Dutch ministries of agriculture.

Developments
The project was concluded to the full satisfaction of all with a closing seminar in Beijing, opened by the Dutch Deputy Prime Minister Verhagen. The Chinese partners emphasized their desire to continue thecooperation. The Netherlands also sees the importance of maintaining the good relationship that has been built up with China during the project. However, the financing for this will no longer come from the project funds of NL Agency. Naktuinbouw will offer a number of training courses in the form of internships each year. Dutch companies have indicated that they are prepared to, partly, finance a PVP Course in China. China also indicated its interest in DNA research and in setting up DNA databases. An inventory is being made of the further possibilities for funding.